With the increased emphasis on food security and the importance of maintaining domestic agricultural production it is encouraging for the industry to see an increase in the number of students who choose to study agriculture and related land based subjects, both full time and particularly part time as an apprentice. At Moulton College student numbers have significantly increased over the last 5 years with agriculture recruitment seeing a further 23% increase this academic year suggesting that students and parents alike are viewing agriculture as a viable career option.
It is clear that the NFU fully believe that apprenticeships are important in ‘attracting and encouraging young people into a successful career in agriculture’. With the signs of increased confidence in the industry and the need to encourage more people into Agriculture it is important for employers to see the advantages of employing an apprentice or putting existing staff through an apprenticeship.
So why would you?
- It can help to create a skilled workforce and therefore increase business profits;
- Increases motivation and recognition of skills for existing staff therefore reducing staff turnover (recent research shows that in more than 80% of cases people who studied as an apprentice are still with the same employer after 10 years);
- Provides a dedicated workforce – students who sign up for an apprenticeship programme are clearly committed to working in agriculture;
- The course can be set up specifically with the individual business in mind allowing flexibility and filling the skills gap on the farm;
- Specialised streams in Mixed Farming, Crops, Livestock and Poultry are available;
- Financially, training costs are less than hiring highly skilled staff and trainees can be trained to suit your individual business needs;
- The apprentice will have a better understanding of the needs of the business;
- Option of flexible delivery to suit the business, especially in busy periods such as harvest;
- Very little paperwork (times have changed)!
- Support provided by the College to complete the small amount of paperwork.
All in all it is good to be able to report a positive picture for the agriculture industry in a time of change. If you feel that an apprentice will benefit your business please contact Sam Herring on 01604 491131 or sam.herring@moulton.ac.uk to discuss your options further.
